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IOL News
5 days ago
- IOL News
The emotional journey of lost luggage: Stories of reunion and heartbreak
For countless passengers, the excitement of travel is often laced with anxiety about their bags. Image: Pexels/Nappy The airport - a bustling nexus of dreams and departures - can also be the site of emotional turmoil when luggage goes missing. For countless passengers, the excitement of travel is often laced with anxiety about their bags. While some stories celebrate joyous reunions, others reflect the heartbreak of lost belongings, highlighting the human experience that can easily get overlooked in the hustle and bustle of air travel. According to recent findings from SITA, the world's leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology, 5.3 billion passengers travelled by air in 2024, marking an 8.2% increase from 2023. As passenger numbers rose, so did the volume of checked luggage; however, the global rate of mishandled luggage has seen significant improvement, dropping to 6.3 bags per 1,000 passengers, down from 6.9 in 2023. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Particularly in the Africa - Middle East region, the rate stood at an impressive 6.02 bags per 1,000 passengers. These statistics point towards a remarkable 67% improvement in luggage handling since 2007, showcasing the effectiveness of advanced technologies such as SITA's WorldTracer. In 2024 alone, over 33.4 million bags were mishandled, but more than 66% were resolved within 48 hours. Airlines invested over $5 billion in tracing and reconciling baggage, a commitment to addressing the growing demands of air travel. However, behind the numbers lie personal narratives that illustrate the emotional stakes involved. One such story is that of Thembi Basi, who shared her harrowing experience on TikTok after her luggage got stuck in Johannesburg while she flew to Cape Town. The chaos of the baggage claim escalated her stress as she faced the prospect of missing out on her holiday plans. Her travels were intertwined with her birthday celebrations, adding to the urgency of the situation. Thankfully, Basi's suitcase was found, allowing her to enjoy her trip, albeit with plans for an AirTag on her next journey for peace of mind. After two canceled Southwest flights, Patrick Keane was finally reunited with his bag at Midway, and he let the entire airport know how it felt. @cbschicago — Noel Brennan (@Noeltbrennan) December 28, 2022 Across the ocean, Patrick Keane's viral video documented his cheerfulness when he was finally reunited with his lost suitcase after enduring 17 hours stranded at Denver International Airport. His joyous scream and energetic leap on the baggage carousel resonated with viewers, underscoring the intense relief and celebration that comes with finding a lost bag. Comments poured in, with many empathising with Keane's plight, displaying a collective understanding of the emotional rollercoaster that mislaid luggage can cause. Conversely, Bianca Beemer's ordeal serves as a cautionary tale. Moving from Toronto to Berlin, Beemer lost nearly all she owned in a checked bag, valued at around $7,000 (approximately R125,000). Despite her optimism, she's still grappling with the absence of her belongings four months later, detailing her struggle with airlines in search of answers on TikTok. The emotional weight of this situation - losing your entire life's worth of belongings during a significant transition - is a stark reminder of how critical our possessions can be in our lives. I got my bag!!! @British_Airways even though I had to drive 2hours to the courier depot because they just didn't deliver my bag to my address after changing the delivery times every hour keeping me on edge and not knowing how to move 'incase' they showed up which they never did.… — Minnie Dlamini (@MinnieDlamini) July 15, 2024 South Africa's own Minnie Dlamini recently faced a frustrating experience with British Airways when her luggage failed to arrive on her birthday trip to London. Landing without her belongings disrupted her plans, and despite numerous attempts to retrieve them, the bags didn't arrive until the final hours of her trip. These stories, though varied, echo a common sentiment - that luggage is not just a collection of garments but a storage of memories and essentials that accompany us on our journeys. While the statistics illustrate improvements in baggage handling, the emotional ramifications of lost luggage reveal a deeper connection we share with our belongings.
IOL News
13-06-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Silent crisis: Why South African men are dying seven years sooner than women
One silent crisis continues to claim lives: men's health. Across South Africa, men are suffering – and dying – in silence. Image: Nappy/Pexels In a world where health discussions dominate conversations, one silent crisis stands out: men's health across South Africa. Glaring statistics reveal a grim reality, as South African men are living an average of seven years less than women, with a life expectancy of just around 62 years compared to 69 years for their female counterparts. This disparity is largely attributed to avoidable health risks, late diagnoses, and an alarming reluctance to seek preventative care. This Men's Health Month, Bestmed Medical Scheme is urging men of all ages to take action towards their well-being. The persistent issues of fear, stigma, and a deeply ingrained culture of avoidance surrounding medical check-ups and health screenings continue to claim lives. 'Too many men only visit a doctor when it's already too late,' warns Dr Lee Moses, Medical Advisor: Advisory Risk and Quality Management at Bestmed Medical Scheme. 'We need to normalise proactive care because prevention is far more powerful than cure.' The stark statistics The statistics paint a sobering picture of men's health in the country. Aside from the considerable life expectancy gap, there is a concerning trend regarding late-stage diagnoses of prostate and testicular cancer. Prostate cancer, the most common cancer among men, is highly manageable if caught in its early stages. However, stigma related to screenings, particularly fears surrounding rectal exams, discourages many from seeking this crucial health service. 'Many men dread the rectal exam,' Dr Moses acknowledges, 'but times have changed. A simple PSA blood test is now an initial screening option for men over 40.' More invasive tests are only recommended if initial assessments raise concerns. To combat this silent crisis, men are encouraged to perform regular testicular self-exams and attend annual prostate screenings to detect potential problems early, before they escalate into life-threatening conditions. Hidden threats to health Prostate cancer is not the only concern on the horizon. Men face higher risks of chronic illnesses, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health disorders. These conditions are often diagnosed too late due to delayed healthcare consultations. Lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, insufficient exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, and tobacco use exacerbate these risks, leading to dire health outcomes. Mental health remains a particularly challenging aspect of men's overall health. Many men are less likely than women to seek help for issues such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. As a result, addiction and suicide rates continue to rise. Furthermore, men fall behind in HIV and TB testing, with a significant number neglecting treatment and precautionary measures, risking their health and the well-being of those around them. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ A call to change 'It's time to flip the script,' Dr Moses asserts. 'Going for regular check-ups isn't a weakness – it's being responsible. It's a strength and it's how we stay alive for the people who count on us.' Bestmed Medical Scheme encourages men to take small but consistent steps towards better health: Schedule annual health screenings Adopt a balanced diet and exercise regularly Manage stress and mental well-being Stay informed and proactive about health 'When detected early, most health problems are manageable or even reversible. Men, your health matters. Speak up. Show up. Live longer.' Dr Moses concludes, urging men to take charge of their health for themselves and their loved ones. IOL
IOL News
13-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Breaking the silence on mental health: how to have those difficult conversations
Despite growing awareness around mental wellness, talking about it remains a challenge. Image: Antoni Shkraba Studio/Pexels You may have a friend who seems unusually quiet or a family member who's withdrawn. You want to ask them how they're feeling, but you hesitate, afraid it might be awkward or intrusive. Sound familiar? For many, this scenario is all too common when it comes to discussing mental health. Despite growing awareness around mental wellness, talking about it remains a challenge. Why is mental health so hard to talk about? In South Africa, mental health is often clouded by stigma. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), up to 1 in 6 South Africans suffer from anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders, yet many never seek help. Why? Talking about mental health is frequently seen as a sign of weakness or failure. Cultural beliefs also play a role. In some communities, mental illness is misunderstood, often attributed to spiritual causes or dismissed as a lack of resilience. A 2022 study by the Human Sciences Research Council highlighted that 70% of South Africans associate mental illness with social stigma, making it harder for individuals to seek help or confide in others. Economic inequality further complicates the issue. In a country where over 55% of the population lives in poverty, many prioritise survival over mental well-being. For instance, it's not uncommon for someone struggling with depression to dismiss their symptoms, saying, 'There's no time to be sad; I need to put food on the table.' Why does talking about mental health matter? Despite these barriers, discussing mental health is essential. Open conversations can lead to early intervention, reducing the severity of mental health issues. Moreover, they help normalise seeking help, breaking the cycle of stigma. Studies show that social support significantly improves mental health outcomes. A 2021 report by SADAG found that individuals who talk about their struggles are more likely to seek professional help, adhere to treatment, and experience better recovery rates. Mental health struggles are deeply personal, and dismissive comments can do more harm than good. Image: Nappy/Pexels How to start the conversation Talking about mental health doesn't have to be daunting. Here are some practical tips: 1. Start small and casual If diving straight into a conversation about mental health feels intimidating, begin with something lighter. Ask your friend or loved one how they're doing in general. For example, 'How's work been lately?' or 'How are things at home?' This approach creates a safe space for them to open up. 2. Acknowledge their struggles If you know someone is going through a tough time, whether it's job loss, grief, or trauma, acknowledge it. Say something like, 'I've noticed you've been quieter than usual. I want you to know I'm here if you need to talk.' This validates their feelings without being intrusive. 3. Offer practical support Acts of kindness can facilitate deeper conversations. Offer to help with practical tasks, such as picking up groceries or assisting with childcare. These gestures show that you care and can create opportunities for deeper conversations. 4. Avoid judgemental language Mental health struggles are deeply personal, and dismissive comments can do more harm than good. Avoid phrases like 'You're overreacting' or 'Just snap out of it.' Instead, use empathetic language such as, 'I can't imagine how hard this must be for you.' 5. Ask open-ended questions Rather than offering advice, ask questions that invite the person to share their feelings. For example, 'What can I do to support you?' or 'What do you think would help you feel better?' This empowers them to express their needs. 6. Be patient Sometimes, people aren't ready to talk, and that's okay. Let them know you're available when they're ready. \A simple message like, 'I'm here if you ever want to chat,' can make a big difference. Local resources for mental health support We live in a country with limited access to mental health services, but organisations like SADAG and Lifeline offer free or low-cost support. Encourage your loved ones to reach out to these resources: SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group): 24-hour helpline at 0800 456 789. Lifeline South Africa: Call 0861 322 322 for confidential support. LoveLife: Aimed at youth mental health, they offer counselling at 083 323 1023. Community-based initiatives, such as peer support groups in townships and rural areas, also play a crucial role in bridging the mental health gap. Mental health is a journey, not a destination. By starting conversations, we can help normalise mental wellness and create a culture of understanding and support. Mental health is something we all have, and taking care of it is a collective responsibility.
